Practice-Based Study: Implementation of a Multidisciplinary PBL Approach in a Design and Manufacture of an UAV in Aerospace Engineering Bachelor´s Degree

Abstract

This paper describes a Project Based Learning (PBL) called “UE-UAV. Design and manufacture of a UAV”, which covers a set of interlinked subjects, those effectively help students to integrate their knowledge and explore the relationships between these subjects in the development of an aircraft. UE-UAV is developed during the third academic year of Aerospace engineering Degree. It addresses three technical subjects (Fluid mechanics II, Aerodynamics and Aeroelasticity, and Graphic and Mechanic Design), one project management related subject (“Managerial Skills”) and it is complemented with a non-formal learning activity, the “Workshop on Drones” closely related to “Air Division” students club. PBL is a powerful teaching methodology that allows increase students’ motivation, learning effort and performance. However, PBL pedagogical features can be negatively affected during the development of complex projects, similar to the problems faced in the engineer professional life. To prevent it, this type of projects requires a multilateral approach that, not only, includes student learning and applying of previous knowledge, technical development of subsystems and their test and validation, but also, fair assessment of individuals and teams’ performance, an effective project management and fostering of communication skills. Another key aspect for effectively carrying out a project is a careful planning, which include a set of milestones that define the roadmap for the development and an effective risk assessing methodologies. In addition the activity of “Workshop on Drones” creates an opportunity to combine formal and informal learning, increasing involvement, motivation and collaboration with all engineering students interested in developing of aircraft.